Course Overview

Introduction to Anatomy & Physiology I

This course provides a comprehensive study of the human body, focusing on major body systems and their regulation. It emphasizes the nervous and endocrine systems, cellular and molecular mechanisms, and the integration of physiological processes. Students will learn through lectures, labs, and online assignments, developing both theoretical understanding and practical skills.

• Major Systems Covered: Nervous, Endocrine, Cardiovascular, Respiratory, Renal, Digestive, Muscular

• Approach: Molecular, cellular, and organ system levels

• Skills Developed: Scientific methodology, reporting, and critical thinking

Course Structure & Requirements

Prerequisites

Students must have completed Biosci 106 (or challenge exam) or Bio 172L AND either Chem 119 or Biosci 110 (or equivalent courses from other colleges).

Textbooks & Materials

• Required Text: Principles of Human Physiology by Cindy L. Stanfield (with Mastering A&P access)

• Recommended: The Physiology Coloring Book by Kapit, Macey, Meisami

• Lab Manual: Physiology Laboratory Manual by Dr. E. Coatney

• Other Equipment: Calculator, 12 colored pencils or pens

Class Rules

• No open shoes, food, or drinks in lab

• No animals or photography during frog labs

• No swearing or foul language in class

Learning Outcomes

Student Objectives

• Demonstrate knowledge of cell structures, organelles, and membrane transport mechanisms

• Describe physiological processes and pathophysiology for each system

• Understand basic functions of cardiovascular, nervous, digestive, respiratory, urinary, and reproductive systems

• Explain pH, acid/base balance, and lung/kidney regulation

Grading & Assessment

Grade Breakdown

• Exams: 50% of grade

• Class Work: 50% of grade

• Grading Scale: 90%+ = A, 80%+ = B, 70%+ = C, 60%+ = D, below 60% = F

Assessment Types

• Quizzes: Review material, given through Mastering A&P

• Exams: Combination of lecture and lab material (70/30 split)

• Assignments: Online exercises, lab write-ups

Course Topics & Weekly Schedule

Major Topics by Week

Lab Schedule

Lab Topics by Date

Key Concepts and Definitions

Cell Structure and Function

Cells are the basic units of life, containing organelles such as the nucleus, mitochondria, and ribosomes. Membrane transport mechanisms include diffusion, osmosis, and active transport, which regulate the movement of substances in and out of cells.

• Diffusion: Movement of molecules from high to low concentration

• Osmosis: Diffusion of water across a semipermeable membrane

• Active Transport: Movement of molecules against a concentration gradient, requiring energy

Metabolism and Biochemistry

Metabolism refers to all chemical reactions in the body, including catabolic (breaking down) and anabolic (building up) processes. Enzymes are biological catalysts that speed up these reactions.

• Enzyme Function: Lower activation energy for reactions

• Protein Synthesis: Process by which cells build proteins from amino acids

Neural and Muscular Physiology

The nervous system transmits signals via action potentials and synaptic transmission. Muscular contraction involves the interaction of actin and myosin filaments, regulated by neural input.

• Action Potential: Rapid change in membrane potential that propagates along neurons

• Synaptic Transmission: Communication between neurons at synapses

• Muscle Contraction: Sliding filament theory explains how muscles contract

Cardiovascular and Respiratory Systems

The cardiovascular system circulates blood, delivering oxygen and nutrients. The respiratory system exchanges gases (O2 and CO2) between the body and environment.

• Cardiac Cycle: Sequence of events in one heartbeat

• Blood Pressure: Force exerted by blood on vessel walls

• Gas Exchange: Occurs in alveoli of lungs

Renal and Acid/Base Balance

The renal system filters blood, removes waste, and regulates fluid and electrolyte balance. Acid/base balance is maintained by the lungs and kidneys to keep blood pH within a narrow range.

• Glomerular Filtration Rate (GFR): Rate at which blood is filtered in the kidneys

• Acidosis/Alkalosis: Conditions of abnormal blood pH

Formula for pH:

Policies and Support

Attendance and Participation

• Attendance is required; excessive absences may result in being dropped from the course

• Continuous participation is necessary for success

Academic Integrity

• No plagiarism or cheating; violations result in zero credit and referral to Dean

• Lab reports and assignments must be original work

Support Services

• DSPS accommodations for students with disabilities

• Tutoring and online resources available

Important Dates

• Unit Exams: September 29, November 3, December 8

• Cumulative Final: December 10

• Drop deadline: November 14

Summary

This syllabus outlines the structure, expectations, and content of Anatomy & Physiology I. Students are expected to engage with both lecture and lab material, complete assignments, and uphold academic integrity. The course covers foundational topics in human physiology, preparing students for advanced study and professional applications.